Understanding Cervical Collars and Neck Injury Treatments

A cervical collar is the brace that is used for various types of neck injuries to stabilize the neck. It prevents further injury as well as helping to promote healing.

Cervical Spine Traction

• This term is used when discussing neck injuries that are treated with spine traction, which is a method of stretching the muscles and vertebrae in the neck after prolonged pain or an injury. The goal is to relax the muscles and release any pinched nerves.

Neck Traction

• Similar to cervical spine traction, neck traction is referred to when discussing the relief of neck pain.

Surgical Collar

• This term is applied when a person has sustained a neck injury that may have required surgery and is prescribed a specific collar to wear for a period of time. It helps to promote healing and minimize movement.

Neck Brace

• This is probably the most widely known term for the cervical collar. It is used when discussing aftercare of an injury, commonly whiplash as seen in a car accident. It is also used when discussing the apparatus used to stabilize the neck and help promote healing after neck surgery.